Hola folks! Today, we are going right into the heart of healthy relationships between parents and children. Knowing the characteristics of healthy relationships is akin to having a map with treasure marked to follow throughout the seas of human connections and disconnections.

So, let’s chart our course—grab your compass, and hoist the mainsail!

Characteristics of Healthy Relationships

Connect

Relationships revolve around connections. The better you connect with someone, the stronger the bond. In parenthood, it’s not new to hear time and time again that connection matters. Connections between parents and children are the anchors of a ship. It is built on love, trust, and mutual respect, fostering a sense of belonging within the family. Through open communication and quality time together, parents and children form deep connections that strengthen their relationship and nurture their emotional well-being.

Disconnect

However, in the world full of connectivity, it’s important to recognize the need for occasional disconnections.  It is the space we create to honor our individuality and recharge our spirits. It’s the quiet moments of solitude that allow us to reflect and grow.

These moments of solitude allow both parents and children to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with themselves. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, or simply spending quiet time alone. Certainly, disconnecting from external distractions can help parents and children maintain balance and perspective in their lives.

But, did you know that there are different types of connections?  Let’s delve into the four main types: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual and explore how they shape our relationship with children.

Discovering the 4 types of connections

1. Physical Connection:

Physical connection is the actual approach to expressing love through touch and closeness. It’s the warm hug, the tender touch of a hand, or simply comforting our loved ones. Moreover, a physical connection contributes to establishing security, which in turn develops the trust between parents and children.
Imagine, after a very tiring day at work, you return back home, and your child is running into your arms for a hug. At that moment, overwhelming love and closeness is expressed, which is way beyond words and care for each other.

2. Emotional Connection:

An emotional connection reaches far beyond words or even actions. It is an invisible link between the hearts and souls. It is the capability to feel with each other, sharing in joyous and sad times, offering love and support unconditionally.
For example: Tearfully, your kid comes to you with the problem about his friend. Instead of giving solutions, you just lay with him, showing attentiveness and speak words of solace and comfort. It’s in that moment that he feels understood and the emotional connection strengthens.

3. Intellectual connection

Intellectual connection is the discussion of deep thoughts and learning together. It empowers curiosity, a critical mind and creativity in our kid. At the same time your child is being open to acquiring new visions and insights also. For example, one afternoon, you and your child read a story book. He understands the hidden message of the story and reflects on how he can use that moral in life.

4. Spiritual Connection

A spiritual connection transcends the physical plane. It is a state of oneness and uniting with something higher than life. It could be through moments of wonder, awe, and gratitude for your faith. Spiritual connection nourishes the soul and brings meaning and purpose to our lives.
For example: All the family members gathers for dinner, sharing the same meal. You make a prayer regarding the food and thank Allah for all the blessings in life. This simple ritual can grow spiritual connection and appreciation of life altogether.

How To Disconnect When Necessary?

Pause, Relax, Reflect.

Oftentimes, the commotion of life, makes us forget that it is important to disconnect and take a breather. Children also need to learn this important lesson as the digital age has taken over.  Here are few tips to help parents disconnect their children when necessary-

• Physical disconnect: Screen time could have time limit and give alternative activities like sports, art or learning basic household chores.
• Emotional disconnect: Bringing his friends home and knowing their habits as well. If the friend has an inappropriate behaviour (like influence of vaping), disconnect your child with him as peers influence children more than anything in the world.
• Intellectual disconnect: Schedule regular periods of downtime where your child can relax and unwind without any academic pressure. This can allow them to work on their hobbies and skill set.
• Spiritual disconnect: Ask your children about their belief system and values. It is vital to know about their thoughts and what they are reading. If your children are treading on the wrong path, guide them before its too late.

Conclusion: Sailing towards the Destiny

As we sail through the characteristics of healthy relationship, let us never forget that children are the future. They need care, patience, and plenty of love for understanding the world. Embracing the characteristics of healthy relationships, will allow your connection with your children to become deeper and stronger. As a result, you as a family, shall withhold any storms that rise in your way.

Disconnect to Connect!